Adrian man charged with drug trafficking – The Globe

WORTHINGTON – Anthony Potts, 40, of Adrian, was arrested on fifth-degree drug sales charges and a gross misdemeanor charge of refusing to submit to a blood/urine test as required by a search warrant following an incident Sept. 7 in Worthington.

According to the police report, a Worthington police officer observed a car on Oxford Street, checked the license plate, and found that the registration had expired in December 2023. He also reportedly observed a person getting into the driver's seat of the vehicle. The officer knew from prior knowledge that the residents of that address were known drug users. The officer then initiated a traffic stop.

The driver identified himself as Potts and said he had no proof of insurance or identification. While speaking to Potts, the officer noticed that he was sweating profusely, even though it was 16 degrees and he had obviously not been doing any physical exertion. He also noticed that Potts' hands were shaking “violently” and that he appeared agitated and was breathing rapidly at times. Potts also avoided eye contact with the officer.

Based on these observations, the officer believed Potts was under the influence of a controlled substance. Potts stated that he was not willing to perform a sobriety test. The officer asked if he could search the vehicle and Potts agreed. As he approached the vehicle, Potts withdrew his consent. The officer had his sniffer dog sniff the perimeter of the vehicle and noticed the odor of narcotics near the driver's window. No contraband was found in the vehicle.

After his arrest, Potts allegedly told the officer, “I have a bag on me,” and presented a bag containing something that later tested positive for methamphetamine.

A search warrant was issued for a blood/urine sample from Potts. He was told he had the right to refuse the sample, but that he would also be charged if he did so. Potts denied providing a sample. When asked if he would pick up or drop off drugs at the residence near where the incident occurred, Potts reportedly said, “Pick up.”

Potts was scheduled to appear in Nobles County Fifth District Court on Friday.

Note: This article was written based on information provided by local law enforcement. The Globe reminds readers that all people are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Hope Moural has been the Globe's community editor since May 2024. Born and raised in Nebraska, Hope holds dual bachelor's degrees in journalism and communications from Concordia University, Nebraska, and previously worked as a general assignment reporter.